The Kano State House of Assembly has initiated steps to amend the State Fire Service Directorate Edict No. 17 of 1970 to incorporate a section regulating the widespread and unregulated sale of cooking gas within Kano metropolis,Daily Trust reports.
This decision followed the presentation of a report by the Standing Committee on Special Duties during a plenary session presided over by the Speaker, Hon. Ismail Falgore. The report focused on the committee’s investigation into the sale of cooking gas in residential areas.
Presenting the findings, the committee chairman, Abdullahi Yahaya, who represents Gezawa Constituency, revealed that the Kano State Fire Service Directorate identified 475 illegal cooking gas premises after consulting with relevant stakeholders. Additionally, data from the state chapter of the Nigerian Mainstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) indicated the existence of 234 unlicensed natural gas retailers in the state.
The investigation stemmed from a motion moved by Hon. Tasiu Abubakar, representing Kiru Constituency, who raised concerns about the safety risks posed by the unregulated sale of cooking gas in residential areas. Abubakar emphasized the need for clear regulatory guidelines to protect lives and property from potential hazards.
The committee chairman expressed concern over the proliferation of uncertified gas retailers, noting that the findings were limited to Kano metropolis. He added that many of these retailers are not registered with NMDPRA and lack the necessary training to safely conduct their businesses.
The committee recommended that the state government establish permanent sites for gas marketers at six strategic entry points to Kano metropolis, similar to the designated locations for GSM and pharmaceutical sellers. The proposed sites include Hadeja Road, Maiduguri Road, Zaria Road, Madobi Road, Gwarzo Road, and Katsina Road.
Following the adoption of the report, Hon. Tasiu Abubakar called on lawmakers to support the repeal of the Fire Service Edict and incorporate necessary amendments to enhance and regulate the operations of gas sales in the state. His motion was seconded by Hon. Salisu Mohammed, representing Doguwa Constituency.
